Helen Fernandez Ayala

88, born in Ybor City and long-time resident of Tampa passed away peacefully at home with her family on Dec 26, 2024. Preceded in death by her parents Jose and Elena Fernandez, brothers Mario Fernandez and Emilio Fernandez and nephew Michael S. Fernandez MD. She is survived by her husband Joseph A (Tony) Ayala; son Joseph Anthony Ayala Jr; daughter Sharon Val Funk; grandchildren Michael Angel Morales (Tara), Joseph Anthony Ayala III, Andrea Nicole Lonsway (Dylan); six (6) great grandchildren; sister-in-law Alice Fernandez; nephew Kristopher E. Fernandez (Susan), nephew Eric G. Fernandez (Elena); niece, Alyson C. Fernandez and niece in law, Suzanne Fernandez. Helen was born July 24, 1936, graduated from Jefferson High School in 1954, was employed by Peerless Pump for 40 years, and retired in 1999.

Helen was a kind and loving person who continually gave to others in need. Helen worked very hard for her family her entire life and was intimately involved in all matters affecting her immediate family. Helen will be missed dearly by everyone who knew her. Many sincere thanks to dementia coach Cate McCarty for her caregiver advice & support during Helen’s journey, and Helen’s knowledgeable & skilled caregiver team including Suncoast Hospice for home care & medical support during her transition.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at Blount & Curry Funeral Home at Garden of Memories, 4207 East Lake Avenue, Tampa, FL 33610. Interment will follow at Myrtle Hill Memorial Park. Go to Dignitymemorial.com to learn more about Helen’s life and family memories.